Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa has commended the Police Public Complaints Commission (PPCC) for its decade-long contribution to promoting accountability, transparency and professionalism within the Zambia Police Service.
Speaking during the official opening of the commission’s 10th anniversary commemorations in Lusaka, Mr Kangwa said the milestone was not only a celebration of institutional longevity but also a reflection of Zambia’s commitment to the rule of law, accountability and democratic governance.
Mr Kangwa said government established the commission to enhance professionalism in the police service, improve public trust and safeguard citizens’ rights, adding that its constitutional recognition demonstrates government’s resolve to strengthen oversight institutions.
“The commission has become a vital pillar in promoting responsible governance and protecting the rights of citizens. Effective policing is fundamental to national development, but it must always be exercised within the bounds of the law and with respect for human rights,” he said.
Mr Kangwa noted that over the past ten years, the commission has made significant progress in advancing its mandate, with more citizens becoming aware of their rights and the mechanisms available for addressing grievances against law enforcement officers.
Mr Kangwa acknowledged the challenges faced by oversight institutions, including inadequate resources, capacity limitations and the need for increased public awareness.
He assured the commission of continued government support, revealing that plans were underway to address its accommodation challenges and strengthen its operational capacity.
“We are not giving up. We will get the commission totally sorted out next year. We remain committed to enhancing its institutional capacity, promoting efficiency and ensuring it operates in an environment that enables it to effectively discharge its constitutional mandate,” Mr Kangwa said.
He further called for greater collaboration among government institutions, local authorities and district administrators to improve awareness and understanding of the commission’s oversight role across the country.
Mr Kangwa also emphasised the need to strengthen investigative and operational capacity, enhance stakeholder engagement and leverage technology to improve service delivery.
And Mr Kangwa urged public institutions, particularly the Zambia Police Service, to support economic growth by facilitating business activities and avoiding unnecessary barriers that hinder commerce.
“All of us have a responsibility to facilitate business because it is through business growth and taxation that government generates the resources required to provide services and address national challenges,” he said.
Mr Kangwa noted that increased economic activity would create the fiscal space needed to fund development programmes and improve public institutions.
Speaking at the same event, Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security Permanent Secretary Dickson Matembo has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting accountability, professionalism and integrity within the Service.
And Police Public Complaints Commission (PPCC) Chairperson Zunga Siakalima has called for increased public awareness and strengthened institutional support to enhance the Commission’s oversight role as it commemorates its 10th anniversary.
